
Johnson siblings cruise to mixed doubles title over Christian, Daescu
Jorja Johnson/JW Johnson captured their fourth title of the year together with an 11-5, 11-1, 11-4 victory over No. 6 seeds Kaitlyn Christian/Andrei Daescu in the mixed doubles final.
It was a dominant performance from the top seeds, with JW finding ways to attack off the bounce and Jorja standing strong in hands battles at the kitchen line.
This is the second consecutive year where Jorja has taken the mixed title in Daytona Beach after also doing so in 2024 alongside fellow Franklin athlete, Hayden Patriquin.
The 19-year-old spoke about the joy she feels returning to Daytona Beach year after year.
“It’s always fun to play Daytona with the Franklin family no matter who’s by my side, but this one’s definitely special,” she said. “I always love playing with my brother, and it’s great to see the fans who come out every single year to support.”
Both Johnson siblings will be back in action later on Sunday, with Jorja set to play in the women’s doubles final with Anna Leigh Waters and JW set to play in the men’s doubles final alongside Augie Ge.
No matter how those matches go, JW’s goals for the upcoming 2026 season are pretty straightforward.
“I just want to keep going and, hopefully, keep winning,” he shared. “I want to play well and keep improving every day.”
In the bronze medal match, No. 11 seeds Callie Smith/Jay Devilliers defeated No. 3 seeds Jessie Irvine/Gabe Tardio by an 11-8, 11-6 score line to secure their first podium finish as a partnership.
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